Rössing Uranium is planning to build a new desalination plant to ensure an economical source of water for its uranium operations in Namibia. The move follows an organizational restructuring as the company strives to improve economic viability at one of the world's top-producing uranium mines.
A ceremony has been held to mark the official start of mining operations at the Husab project in Namibia. The project is majority owned by China General Nuclear Power Corporation and is set to make Namibia one of the world's largest uranium suppliers.
Namibia's Rössing uranium mine is gradually resuming operations after one of two leaching modules returned to service. The mine has been out of action following a leach tank failure late last year.
China National Nuclear Corporation has agreed to buy a 25% stake in Paladin's Langer Heinrich uranium mine in Namibia, entitling it to a corresponding share of the project's output.
A supply contract with Namibia Water Corporation will see Areva's Erongo desalination plant provide water to several uranium mines in the region.